OK. So I consulted a skincare professional at Dermis Advanced Skincare Clinic here in Ottawa – for some much needed information about how to treat pregnancy related and Post Inflammatory Hyper-pigmentation.

Post-Inflamatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is pigmentation that follows injury or an inflammation of the skin and typically happens to people with darker skin.

Pregnancy Related Hyperpigmentation has been linked to endocrinological (hormonal) changes. Certain parts of your skin can become darker because of the increased melanin production.

I went in last week to consult a professional about how to deal with my own personal problems around these two skin issues. I, for as long as I can remember, have been prone to dark spots that are left behind after an acne spot or any kind of skin tear. It sucks …. and I’ve had little success sticking the course with a skincare regimen to address and make progress on the problem. I also have some older really bad marks that have darkened since getting pregnant. JOY!

Here were some of the recommendations from the Dermis Advanced Skincare consultant I spoke with. She suggested a couple of treatments to address the problem.

To address PIH –

Chemical peels or Carbon laser peels: A chemical peel involves a chemical solution being applied to the skin that causes it to blister and peel and reveal a new layer of skin. During a carbon peel a carbon lotion is applied to the skin. Then a laser is used to remove the damaged outer layer of the skin while stimulating collagen production. It is said to be more effective than a chemical peel and involves NO downtime.

Spectra toning treatment: A carbon lotion is applied to the skin and then laser energy is used to zap and target melanin cells for a gradual reduction in pigment. The technician will likely do multiple passes of the laser on your skin to target deep into your skin’s tissue.

Both of these treatments are and will be effective for pregnancy related discolouring too. I was told to wait until after giving birth to get any treatments done and if you are breastfeeding like I am planning to do – Carbon laser procedures are safe, but chemical peels should be avoided.

I was also schooled on things and treatments that can be done from home as well as certain product lines that can help as well. The Dermis Advanced Skincare consultant told me to look for products with willow bark in them. Willow bark helps to exfoliate the skin naturally. The Eminence Organic Skincareherbal spot serum is a good choice for spot lightening dark marks. It also contains willow bark as well as other amazing active ingredients to help fade dark spots over time. I’ve never personally tried this line or product, but I look forward to trying this product (especially since it is an organic skincare line and most of my hygiene products tend to fall in that category these days).

Exfoliation is a key part of clearing and fading spots and patches that have darkened.

Here are some easily accessible ingredients to look for in products that can help you in clearing your skin at home.

Hydroquinone: This ingredient works by blocking the production of melanin in the skin and therefore results in lighter skin.

Alpha hydroxy acids: These acids help to speed up the skin’s natural exfoliation process and can reveal a clearer complexion over time.

Retinoids help to speed up the skins cell turnover – helping to fade dark marks over time.

To address my issues after the baby gets here, I think I will stick to a couple of in spa treatments during the year while trying to establish a strict regimen at home. I was told the key to fading dark spots is persistence and consistency – which in all honestly Ive never really deployed before. I’m excited to start my journey with all the information I got from the Dermis team.

Thanks for reading. If you want more information on how to address this issue visit the Dermis Advanced Skincare Ottawa website to read up on treatment options that you can look for wherever you live.

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